Andrés Orozco-Estrada revives the tradition of the styriarte church concerts in Stainz. During the Beethoven cycle of the 2016 styriarte, he and Concentus Musicus got along so well that the idea of a Schubert programme was born. At the heart of it all: Schubert's greatest masses in the original sound of his time. «I still have the intent of dedicating it to the Emperor or Empress, because I find it excellent». Schubert's dream did not come true. What would Emperor Franz have made of this earthquake of faith? But it is perfect material for a volcano on the stand of a conductor like Orozco-Estrada.

Baroque Treasures - J. S. Bach's High Mass in B minor

Easter has always been one of the most inspiring and challenging times for many composers. Important works of music history were created around this time of the year. Every year, under the direction of Rubén Dubrovsky, this music brings the Bach Consort Vienna back to the place for which it was composed: the sacred space. Bach's Mass in B minor is one of the greatest works of music history.

Joseph Haydn's The Seasons

Joseph Haydn's The Seasons from the beautiful Haydnsaal concert hall at Schloss Esterházy.In contrast with normal practice for oratorios, Haydn did not draw on biblical texts. He focused neither on Christian figures nor on the heroes of antiquity, but instead allowed farmers and maids to sing. In The Seasons, Haydn succeeded in creating an exciting and lovingly crafted piece of music. Above all, the work was forward looking: Haydn's theme of closeness to nature gestured towards the forthcoming Romantic Age and led composers such as Schubert and Weber to take inspiration from folklore.

Christmas in Vienna 2018

«Christmas in Vienna» is and has been, for the last two decades, one of the most prestigious classical concert productions in Europe. Every year, the traditional Christmas event takes places in the glamorous Wiener Konzerthausand brings together a quartet of the best internationalvocalists. They recite atmospheric Christmas songsfrom all over the world, accompanied by the ORF ViennaRadio Symphonic Orchestra, the Vienna SingingAcademy and the Vienna Boys' Choir. A repertoire ofclassical and popular music from around the world alsomakes the 2018 program an annual highlight during the Christmas season.

Springtime in Vienna 2018

For more tha 40 years the Vienna Symphonic Orchestra's traditional Springtime concert will be recorded live from the Goldener Saal of the Vienna Musikverein and will take you on a Musical journey through selected masterpieces from various worldknown composers! The Viennese symphonic orchestra is celebrating the upcoming spring with renowned conductors and soloists and a colorful bouquet of lively melodies!

La Margarita

Emperors and kings were basking in the splendor of the horses ballet. Here the High School of Classical Dressage, the splendor of baroque music and the drama of opera build a perfect combination. To revive this form of art, «La Margarita», tells a story about the legendary hero Hercules and the seductive golden apples of the Hesperides, inspired by the historical performance that Emperor Leopold I made in 1667 for his wedding in Vienna.

About 140 young talents from all 28 European countries met in Grafenegg to represent the EU and its «Diverse Unity». The «European Union Youth Orchestra» not only offers this young musical elite an opportunity to progress in their careers, but it also treats its members to musical delicacies. When the young musicians meet gifted conductors such as Vasily Petrenko and the celebrated violinist Baiba Skride at the Grafenegg Festival, they are guaranteed a musical delight. They can savour Grafenegg's «Northern Lights» Program together, enjoy works from Northern countries and travel from Estonia to Sweden through compositions by the wonderful Arvo Pärt, Jean Sibelius and many more.

Carl Maria von Weber's The Marksman

Carl Maria von Weber's «The Marksman» is a founding piece of German Romantic Opera. This gruesome tale tells the story of Max, a young hunter's dream of marrying Agathe, a rich heiress. For this, he must shoot on target but makes a pact with the devil to make his dream come true. The devil has other plans for the young couple. Can Max avoid the fate dawning on both his lady and himself?

Baroque Treasures - From Ospedale to Concordia

This year's Easter concert performed by the Vienna Bach Consort promises to be more than just an artistic pleasure - step into the footsteps of the music experts of the 18th century: performed in the Klosterneuburg basilica and experience works that Antonio Vivaldi composed for the Ospedale to be sung, by the girls growing up there, in the church services of the Santa Maria della Pietà.

Christmas in Vienna 2017

For more than 20 years «Christmas in Vienna» is one of the most prestigious classical concert productions in Europe. Every year the traditional Christmas concert takes places in the glamorous Wiener Konzerthaus and brings together a quartet of the best international vocalists.They recite atmospheric Christmas songs from all over the world, accompanied by the ORF Vienna Radio Symphonic Orchestra, the Vienna Singing Academy and the Vienna Boys Choir. A repertoire of classic and popular music from around the world also determine the 2016 program as an annual climax during the Christmas season..

Everybody Waltz

With this festive concert the Johann Strauss Orchestra celebrates its 50th anniversary!

The Vienna Johann Strauss Orchestra can rightly claim to be one of the most authentic ensembles for interpreting the music of the Strauss dynasty. In 1966 -- nearly 120 years after Johann Strauss I had founded the Strauss Orchestra, the great demand for high-Quality interpretations of light music led a group of musicians in Vienna who belonged to the small ensemble of the Austrian Radio Orchestra to found the Vienna Johann Strauss Orchestra. The aim of new orchestra was to cultivate both the music of the Strauss dynasty, as well as so-called 'light' Viennese music. It was formed of fortytwo musicians, that it to say the ensemble was the same size as that which, according to authentic accounts, was preferred by the members of the Strauss family.

For five whole days the Austrian town Melk turns into the centre of classical music. Under the motto «Love knows no ending» one musical highlight will chase the other - matinees, enchanting night concerts, musical entertainment for kids, musical baroque and modern cross-over events with top performances of international stars as soprano Sophie Karthäuser, bariton Günther Groissböck, the acclaimed Tölz Boys' Choir, La Grande Chapelle and many more will fascinate the audience.

Ralph Benatzky's Axel at Heaven's Gate

The Axel of the story is a reporter desperate to secure an interview with Mills that will make or break his career, but who finds that all his efforts are thwarted by both the actress and the shenanigans of the studio moguls. Showing opera stars Bettina Mönch as Gloria Mills and Andreas Bieber as Axel amongst others with outstanding sounds from the Volksoper Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Lorenz C. Aichner, in combination with its special black-and-white visual design, this operetta is an exceptional Music experience.

Axel at Heaven's Gate is much more than a period piece and well worth discovering as it makes its return to Vienna at the Volksoper Wien; indeed it is a work that offers a tantalising glimpse of what might have been had it not been for the war; one that might have seen Viennese operetta continue to prosper alongside the still young medium of cinema.

Springtime in Vienna 2017

For more tha 40 years the Vienna Symphonic Orchestra's traditional Springtime concert will be recorded live from the Golden Hall of the Vienna Musikverein and will take you on a Musical journey through selected masterpieces from various worldknown composers! The Viennese symphonic orchestra is celebrating the upcoming spring with renowned conductors and soloists and a colorful bouquet of lively melodies!

Joseph Haydn's Creation

Tremendous choirs for the heavenly host, enthralling musical portrayals of the creation of light and luminarie, the paradise, nature, animals and a stunning duet of the first people - this is Joseph Haydn's Creation. A young cast of aspiring voices, the Kammerchor Wien and the Haydn Philharmonie conducted by Nicolas Altstaedt make «Joseph Haydn's Creation» a multifaceted musical pleasure from the walls of the Esterházy Castle in Eisenstadt (Burgenland/Austria).

Beethoven's Ninth Symphony

To crown the Styriarte 2016's Beethoven cycle the Colombian Andrés Orozco-Estrada conducted Beethoven's Ninth Symphony in the original sound of the Concentus Musicus Vienna ensemble with distinguished soloists (Regula Mühlemann, Elisabeth Kulman, Steve Davislim and Florian Boesch) and the outstanding Arnold Schoenberg Choir. The Styriarte concert, which was performed on 23rd July 2016 as part of the 10th ORF Steiermark Klangwolke in Graz, was recorded and broadcast live on Radio Steiermark, ORF III, 3sat and via public viewing in all of Styria. The concert received a standing ovation.

Christmas in Vienna 2016

For more than 20 years «Christmas in Vienna» is one of the most prestigious classical concert productionsin Europe. Every year the traditional Christmas concert takes places in the glamorous Wiener Konzerthaus and brings together a quartet of the best international vocalists.They recite atmospheric Christmas songs from all over the world, accompanied by the ORF Vienna Radio Symphonic Orchestra, the Vienna Singing Academy and the Vienna Boys Choir. A repertoire of classic and popular music from around the world also determine the 2016 program as an annual climax during Christmas season.

The Bach Consort ensemble presents the festive Easter Concert for the third time. In 2016 the concerttakes place in the Klosterneuburg Monastery. Handel's Messiah is returning to its original premièreseason: Easter time. On the 273rd anniversary of its first performance in London, Handel's Oratorio willring out in the Collegiate Church in Klosterneuburg. Conducted by Rubén Dubrovsky, the Bach Consortensemble will play with the Salzburg Bach Choir and renowned international soloists such as Kammersänger(an Austrian honorific title for excellent singers) Michael Schade, Hanna Herfurtner, GaiaPetrone and Christian Immler. Handel's Messiah outlines the message of the Christian salvation history:the prophecy, incarnation of Jesus, suffering, death, resurrection and promise of his return. Handel,the great musical dramatist, unfolds the events with theatrical force and touching empathy.

Also available: Highlights »Messiah - Risen from the dead« (65 min.)

Festival of Joy

The reason for this festival concert in Vienna's Heldenplatz is the capitulation of the National Socialist regime on May 8, 1945. The Festival of Joy was founded in 2013 to celebrate this day of liberation in worthy fashion. This open-air concert is intended to celebrate the liberation from National Socialist rule and all the victims of the National Socialists. The festival is organised by the Austrian Mauthausen Committee in cooperation with the Vienna Symphony Orchestra, the Documentation Centre of Austrian Resistance, the Vienna Israelite Community, the Austrian Holocaust Memorial Service, the City of Vienna and the Austrian Federal Government. Under the direction of Christopf von Dohnànyi the Vienna symphony orchestra will play "A survivor from Warsaw" and Beethoven´s synphony Nr.3 "Eroica" together with baritone Thomas Hampson and members of the "Vienna Singverein".

Bach to the Roots

In the concert film «Bach to the Roots», the Vienna Bach Consort ensemble conducted by Rubén Dubrovsky, brings music with Latin-American roots to the Vienna Konzerthaus. The two worlds of Argentine folk music and European baroque music are contrasted with one another in impressive fashion. Dubrovsky brings their musical roots to the audience, highlights what they have in common and, as the musical programme unfolds, embarks upon an entertaining, enigmatic and insightful search for clues from Leipzig to the roots of baroque music as far as Africa. The musical contributions come from the Zacherl Factory, the Konzerthaus and the Hofburgkapelle in Vienna. Whilst the mezzo soprano, Bernarda Fink, and tenor, Francisco Brito, perform baroque works in the South American tradition, and present Argentine music according to European performance practice.

Springtime in Vienna 2016

Conducted by Manfred Honeck the traditional Springtime concert of the Vienna Symphonic Orchestra will take you on a wonderful journey through Austria with selected masterpieces of Mozart, Beethoven and Strauss. The musical highlights of this exceptional concert will be featured by the passionate musical artist and pianist Helene Grimaud.

Christmas in Vienna 2015

Every year the traditional Christmas concert in Vienna brings together a quartet of the best international vocalists. Angelika Kirchschlager, Valentina Nafornita, Piotr Beczala and Artur Rucinski recite joyful and atmospheric Christmas songs from all over the world, accompanied by the ORF Radio-Symphonic Orchestra Vienna, the Vienna Singing Academy and the Vienna Boys Choir. Conducted by Erwin Ortner, the concert will take place in the glamorous Wiener Konzerthaus.

Star Night at the Wörthersee 2015 Open Air

With superstars Francine Jordi, Howard Carpendale, The Common Linnets and many more the Starnacht at the Wörthersee 2015 Open Air, taking place at the lakesidestage in Klagenfurt, will entertain the pop music fans as never before!

Star Night Wachau 2015 Open Air

This year the Star Night Wachau welcomes Special guest «The Voice of Modern Talking» Thomas Anders. Joined by well-known popmusic singer Roland Kaiser and many other great pop stars like Revolverheld, the Wachau will again fascinate and entertain the audience with this outstanding musical highlight!

Springtime in Vienna 2015

The traditional Easter concert from the Symphony Orchestra is entirely dedicated to the Austrian composer Franz Schubert. Following the musical direction of Philippe Jordan, the Viennese Symphony Orchestra brings orchestral works, like the Symphony No 3 in D major and orchestral arrangements of Schubert songs. The orchestral accompaniment promises a totally new listening experience. The German baritone Matthias Goerne supports the Symphony Orchestra. His voice will give the Schubert songs additional phonetic dramatic.

Baroque Treasures - Antonio Vivaldi

The virtuosic performance of Vienna Bach Consort conducted by its genius maestro Ruben Dubrovsky at Vienna's St. Stephan's Cathedral will carry its audience along to original sound impressions of Vivaldi's time. The magnificent setting of St. Stephan's Cathedral and the artistic peak of orchestra and conductor will be enhanced by the appearance of the adorable Vivica Genaux. The US-mezzosoprano is famous for her extraordinary interpretation of baroque repertoire. This concert captivates with its exceptional relation of sacral music and acoustic impressions. Vienna Bach Consort featuring mezzo-soprano Vivica Genaux, conducted by Ruben Dubrovsky: an exceptional music experience!

New Year's Day Concerts

For decades, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra has given a live concert on New Year's Day, playing predominantly compositions by the splendid Strauss family. It has become a tradition in 60 countries all over the world to welcome the New Year with the music from the Musikverein in Vienna. The orchestra is world famous, partly because of its many international tours. Conducted by Clemens Krauss, Willi Boskovsky, Herbert von Karajan, Claudio Abbado and Carlos Kleiber, Riccardo Muti, Nikolaus Harnoncourt, Seiji Ozawa, Lorin Maazel, Mariss Jansons, Zubin Mehta and Georges Prêtre the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra was the first to play inimitable Viennese waltzes, polkas and marches in classical concerts, they have now become a yearly tradition. The concert takes place in the famous «Golden Hall» of the Musikverein. The Vienna State Opera Ballet dances to some of the pieces in the most beautiful Palais of Vienna. In the break of the concert, picturesque scenes from Austria are shown, accompanied by lovely stories about the Viennese music and traditions.

Conchita - Queen of Austria LIVE Concert

Conchita Wurst - 1st Live Concert after ESC 2014!With an amazing performance of her song "Rise Like A Phoenix", Conchita Wurst not only won the hearts of Europe at the ESC 2014, but also made an impressive statement about tolerance and acceptance!

Now the Queen of Austria gave her first live concert in Vienna after her overwhelming victory!

On Sunday, May 18th 2014, Conchita Wurst performed live at the Vienna Ballhausplatz and fascinated the audience, especially with her powerful song "Rise Like A Phoenix"! Before her fans could joyfully cheer their queen, Conchita Wurst was received by the Austrian Federal Chancellor, Werner Faymann, as well as the Federal Minister for Arts, Culture and Public Service, Josef Ostermayer.

Europe Sings

A musical peace project on the occasion of the 100th memorial of World War I - in front of the magnificent backdrop of Vienna's historic townhall, Europe's best choirs got together on Europe Day, May 9th, and created a unique vocal experience! The repertoire of the choirs from all over Europe impresses through their great diversity. Ranging from English madrigals and early Baroque musical works to classical music and music from romanticism up to contemporary compositions and vocal jazz the singers amaze with their varying facets. Conducted by the young Cornelius Meister and accompanied by the ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra as well as the Arnold Schoenberg Choir, this concert is a real highlight of international musical performances!

Baroque Treasures - Claudio Monteverdi

Claudio Monteverdi's sacral concert «Selva Morale e Spirituale», written in 1641, merges the rythms of folk music with psalms from the Old Testament. The overwhelming acoustics of Vienna's St. Stephen's Cathedral and the usage of historic instruments such as the theorbe or the zink create an authentic and unique sound experience. Led and conducted by Maestro Rubén Dubrovsky, the Vienna Bach Consort, one of the most important Baroque ensembles in Austria, will not fail to impress. The orchestra focuses on the intensive dialog with baroque music and accounts for the rediscovery of many important Baroque works, such as those by Johann Josef Fux or Francesco Bartolomeo Conti. The powerful vocal support by the very talented soloists Soetkin Elbers and Theresa Dlouhy (soprano), Jakob Huppmann and Markus Forster (counter-tenor), Tore Tom Denys and Markus Miesenberger (tenor) as well as Gerd Kenda and Joel Frederiksen (basso) makes this concert a remarkable pleasure.

Salute to Vienna

Since 1995, «Salute to Vienna» welcomes the spring with the enchanting music of Johann Strauss and other fantastic musicians. In 2013, the great operetta- gala took place in the famous Wiener Konzerthaus in Vienna for the second time. «Salute to Vienna 2013» is presented by US-starmezzosoprano Frederica von Stade and Academy Award Winner Maximilian Schell. The Vienna Symphonic Orchestra, conducted by the renowned Strauss-specialist Maestro Peter Guth and the young Venezuelan conductor Manuel López-Gómez, electrifies with an enchanting medley of Viennese operetta: arias of «The Bat», «The Merry Widow», «The Land of Smiles» and «The Riviera Girl», as well as a firework of Strauss-waltzes will not fail to entertain the audiences. The British star-tenor Russell Watson appears as a special guest. Celebrated Austrian soprano Daniela Fally and multi-award-winning Russian tenor Dmitry Korchak will not fail to impress. The adorable sopranos Iva Mihanovic and Alexandra Reinprecht and Austrian baritone Daniel Serafin round up the fulminant setting. Enchanting musical and visual impressions are guaranteed by Austrian Vienna Boy's Choir and the State Opera Ballet of Vienna.

Christmas in Vienna 2014

For many years «Christmas in Vienna» has been a fixed star in the round of Viennese Advent concerts, and this year again combines a balance of the well-known and the less well-known, classical and popular, expansive music with intimate settings and religious and secular music. The highly coveted soloists are Natalia Ushakova, Vesselina Kasarova and Artur Rucinski and together form this year's highlights. The program arrangement runs the gamut from «Festive Christmas» to «International Christmas» to «Popular Christmas». This atmospheric concert is broadcast from Vienna's Konzerthaus.

The Easter Concert from the Vienna Symphony Orchestra will receive powerful vocal support this year in the form of tenor Johan Botha singing Wagner and Lehar. In addition,Springtime in Vienna will see a further première, as Simone Young becomes the first woman to take the conductor's stand at this traditional event. The television broadcast of this spirited programme from Musikverein in Vienna is in the reliable hands of director Agnes Mèth. In 2014 the orchestra travels with Carl Maria von Weber, Franz Schubert, Richard Wagner and of course Ludwig van Beethoven.

This
year, Bad Kleinkirchheim once more is the gathering place of the stars of
«Volkstümliche Musik» (folk music) and «Schlager« (traditional German language
pop music) at the «When the Music Plays - Winter Open Air 2013», which takes
place for the eleventh time. In a placid winter ambience, Arnulf Prasch
presents a colorful music mix featuring stars of domestic «Volkstümliche Musik»
like DJ Ötzi, Petra Frey, Stefanie Hertel, The young Zillertaler, the Edlseer
and the Schürzenjäger.

Star Night Wachau 2013 Open Air

After a successful premiere in 2012, the beautiful Danube river valley in Lower Austria is again representing the surrounding this September. In the midst of the unique winelandscape of the Wachau valley, in front of the ruin Dürnstein, Alfons Haider presents national and international superstars.

Star Night at the Wörthersee 2013 Open Air

As last year the «Star Night at the Wörthersee» takes place on the lakesidestage in Klagenfurt. In the summery ambiance of that night, Alfons Haider presents, as every year, the superstars of pop music and «Schlager» (traditional German-language pop music).

Christmas in Vienna 2013

For many years «Christmas in Vienna» has been a fixed star in the round of Viennese Advent concerts, and this year again combines a balance of the well-known and the less well-known, classical and popular, expansive music with intimate settings and religious and secular music. The program arrangement runs the gamut from «Festive Christmas» to «International Christmas» to «Popular Christmas».

Summer Gala Concert - Grafenegg 2013

Each year, the majestic «Wolkenturm» in Grafenegg serves as a stage for many great concerts, to the gain of the Austrian music scene and far beyond. The evenings on the «Wolkenturm» are traditionally opened with the Midsummer Night's Gala, which brings some of the greatest stars on the international music scene to Grafenegg. The fi rst group of well-known artists this year consists of soprano Karita Mattila, bass-baritone Luca Pisaroni and Austrian percussion virtuoso Martin Grubinger, who will perform together with the Tonkünstler under Andrés Orozco-Estrada.

Springtime in Vienna 2013

The
annual highlight of the season, Springtime in Vienna, marks Fabio Luisi's last
season as chief conductor. On this occasion, the outgoing music director of the
Wiener Symphoniker presents a program of personal favourites from his homeland,
an evocative potpourri of concerted pieces, plus music from opera and film
scores.

The Open Air event Star Night Wachau celebrates its premiere in 2012. After the great success of the «Star Night at the Wörthersee» which annually takes place in July in Carinthia, the beautiful Danube river valley in Lower Austria is representing a new surrounding this September. In the midst of the unique wine-landscape of the Wachau valley, in front of the ruin Dürnstein, Alfons Haider presents national and international superstars such as the British pop-princess Amy McDonald, Nino de Angelo, Adoro, Wolfgang Ambros, Nik P, Allessa and many more - a special event in an extraordinary ambiance.

Christmas in Vienna 2012

For many years «Christmas in Vienna» has been a fixed star in the round of Viennese Advent concerts, and this year again combines a balance of the well known and the less well known, classical and popular, expansive music with intimate settings and religious and secular music. The program arrangement runs the gamut from «Festive Christmas» to «International Christmas» to «Popular Christmas». A dream team of classical vocal artistry - Sophie Koch and Piotr Beczala - cast their spell on us, together with the new international star from St. Petersburg, Julia Novikova, the Danish baritone and darling of the Viennese public, Bo Skovhus, and the 150-plus artists of the ORF Radio Symphony Orchestra of Vienna, the Vienna Singakademie and the St. Florian Boys Choir under the direction of Sascha Goetzel.

In 2011 the Hans Gabor Belvedere International Singing Competition, one of the oldest and most renowned singing competitions for young singers, celebrated a significant anniversary. For the past 30 years the Vienna Chamber Opera has given young singing talents the opportunity to make international contacts for their future careers in opera. 141 young singers, selected among over 3000 contestants in pre-rounds throughout the world, travelled to Vienna to make their dreams come true. Young filmmaker Michael Podogil and Rudolf Takacs follow several candidates, a jury member, and an opera agent from their arrival in Vienna through the finals and document the winners and the losers in heartfelt moments between hope, luck, and disappointment. The film also features interviews with among the most prominent casting directors in Europe and the United States, including Christophe Seuferle, current General Manager of the Deutsche Oper Berlin, Christina Scheppelmann, Artistic Director of Washington National Opera, Dominque Meyer, General Manager of the Vienna State Opera, and Peter Katona, Casting Director of the Royal Opera House Covent Garden, to name a few.

When the Music Plays - Winter Open Air 2012

This
year, Bad Kleinkirchheim once more is the gathering place of the stars of folk
music and «Schlager» (traditional German-language pop music) at the «Wenn die
Musi spielt - Winter Open Air 2012» , which takes place for the tenth time. In
a placid winter ambience, Arnulf Prasch presents a colorful music mix featuring
stars of domestic «volkstümliche Musik» like Marc Pircher, the Nockalm
Quintett, Petra Frey, Die jungen Zillertaler and the shooting star of the
industry, Andreas Gabalier, and many more.

Star Night at the Wörthersee 2012 Open Air

This year the «Star Night at the Wörthersee» takes place on the lakesidestage in Klagenfurt for the first time. In the summery ambiance ofthat night, Alfons Haider presents, as every year, the superstars of popmusic and «Schlager» (traditional German-language pop music). The musicalfireworks right on the Wörthersee feature among many other starschart-topping Andreas Gabalier, blockbuster act Opus and Johnny Logan.

Springtime in Vienna 2012

On the occasion of the traditional Easter concert, the Vienna SymphonicOrchestra takes the audience on a top class holiday adventure, under theleadership of chief conductor, Bertrand de Billy. The orchestra travels withBizet, Offenbach, de Falla and of course Johann Strauß. It's a journeyembellished along the way with lively waltzes and polkas, a hallmark ofViennese classical music.

This year's concert of the «Tonkünstler-Orchestra»will take place in June and like all other Grafeneggconcerts will not fail to impress. This major musical event at the beginning of the Grafenegg festivalhas become a by word for festive joie de vivrein recent years. Guesting at the «Wolkenturm»are Joyce DiDonato, mezzo-soprano, MichaelSchade, tenor and Vadim Repin, violist.

The traditional advent concert brings also in 2011 a quartet of international singing greats together. Angela Denoke, Liliana Nikiteanu, Ramon Vargas and Paul Armin Edelmann sing Christmas songs from all over the world. Alongside the Vienna Singakademie, St. Florian's Boys' Choir with their soloist, Alois Muehlbacher, will also be taking part this year. They will be accompanied by the ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, for the first time under the leadership of Sascha Goetzel. This atmospheric concert will be broadcast from the unique ambience of the Vienna Konzerthaus.

The programme includes Christmas classics such as «Silent Night», and the traditional «Hallelujah Chorus« from Handel's «Messiah». In addition, Christmas medleys and pieces from the various soloists' homelands will also be played and sung.

Hansi Hinterseer Open Air 2011

In honor of the Open Air Concerts 10th anniversary, Hansi Hinterseer has put together a special program for his fans and friends of pop music. Offering a perfect blend of top guests and top hits, video projections and a dazzling light show, the Hansi Hinterseer Open Air Concert creates an extraordinary atmosphere. The Open Air Concert 2011 is a guaranteed mood booster, encouraging everyone to join in on the popular hit songs; inspiring one to dream and desire, maybe even insinuating a little fl irt whilst singing and dancing to the music.

Together with his musical guests like Andrea Bocelli, Alpentrio Tyrol, The Original Tiroler Echo, Encho Keryazow, Rob Spence, Voigasplattler, Zellberg Buam and the people of Kitzbühl, Hansi Hinterseer has put together a performance for everyone to enjoy and remember in their memories as well as their hearts.

Program:

The concert features old and new songs - as well as songs from the album «Two Hearts», where the native Tyrolean has put together a compilation of upbeat songs, love songs and beautiful ballads. Successfully gaining more international fame day by day, the Tyrolean has chosen a wide range of songs infl uenced by his Tyrolean musical customs and traditions as well as international infl uences. «So sehr lieb ich Dich» and «Heut ist ein Tag zum Glücklich sein» are songs inspired by South American rhythms using instruments accompanying traditional folk songs. «Mei Heimat» and «Tirol gibt's nur einmal» full of love for his home and give one a tangible sense of nature.

Summer Gala Concert - Grafenegg 2011

This major musical event at the beginning of the Grafenegg festival has become a byword for festive joie de vivre in recent years. Guesting at the Wolkenturm are Genia Kuehmeier, Sol Gabetta and Sabine Meyer, three soloists who are among the leading artists in their respective fields on the world's biggest stages. The magnificent selection of masterpieces is directed by Michael Boder, who, as musical director at the Gran Teatredel Liceu in Barcelona and as an opera director has worked at the very summit of the international music scene over the past few years.

In 2010 the audience was able to look forward to seeing Helene Fischer, Andy Lee Lang, De Hoehner, Sigrid & Marina, the Original Tiroler Echo and artists Michael Raivard and Michel Lauzière - as well, of course, as host Hansi Hinterseer, who wowed them with a number of his hits.

Hansi Hinterseer on the event: «I am thoroughly delighted with the Open Air program for 2010. Helene Fischer, Andy Lee Lang, De Hoehner, Sigrid & Marina, my friends from the Original Tiroler Echo and our two artists Michael Raivard and Michel Lauzière inspired both the audience and me in equal measure. The evening was over far too quickly. In the sold-out tennis stadium under sunny skies and with the wonderful new stage the atmosphere was unbelievable - with visitors from all over the world, including Arizona and Australia.»

Stars, hits, thousands of fans and Hansi Hinterseer - again this year, these were the ingredients that made up the «Great Hansi Hinterseer Open Air» event. For the ninth time the public's favourite welcomed famous colleagues from the music world to the tennis stadium in his home town of Kitzbühel and once again ensured an entertaining night's TV - which can be seen on Saturday, 5th September 2009 at 8.15 pm on ORF 2. Viewers can look forward to seeing, among others, Johnny Logan, the Nockalm Quintett, Die Stoakogler, G.G. Anderson, Marianne & Michael, Oesch's Die Dritten, the Twinnies, the Duo Minasov, the Original Tiroler Echo - and, of course, their host, Hinterseer.

Hansi Hinterseer on the event: «For me this year again it was simply great to be able to feel this connection and sense of community at the ninth Open Air event in my home town of Kitzbühel, be it on the fans' walk, where over ten thousand walkers joined me, or our procession into the town, where my musical guests and I received such a warm welcome. At the fantastic concerts in the tennis stadium in particular we received terrific support from the packed stands.

Popular stars with their greatest hits, thousands of jubilant fans and a congenial host once again came together to present 2008's «Great Hansi Hinterseer Open Air» event. The public's favourite welcomed well-known musicians to the tennis stadium in his home town of Kitzbühel for the eighth time. Among others, Wencke Myhre, Francine Jordi, the Italian superstar Drupi, «Die Flippers», ChueLee, the Gruppe Wind, the Zellberg Buam, Rico Sanchez & The Gypsies and the Original Tiroler Echo were there, plus, of course, the blonde heart throb himself, who wowed the audience with a multitude of his hits.

Hansi Hinterseer Open Air 2007

A fantastic atmosphere, great music and entertaining performances were once again part of the «Great Hansi Hinterseer Open Air» event in 2007. Numerous ever-popular easy listening stars took up the invitation from host Hansi Hinterseer to enthral the Kitzbühel audience. Not only did Hansi Hinterseer, together with the Original Tiroler Echo perform several of his hits, but a crowd of top quality guests also provided excellent entertainment: joining in with the party were Tony Christie, Die Jungen Original Oberkrainer, the finalists in the «Musikantenstadl» up-and-coming musicians' competition, Oesch's Die Dritten, plus De Höhner, Rosanna Rocci, Helene Fischer, Peter Shun, Nik P and Andy Borg.

The Hoff is Back

«Baywatch» and «Knight Rider» star David Hasselhoff performed an exclusive concert in Pörtschach, Austria on July 10 on occasion of the «Starnacht am Wörthersee». «The Hoff» enchanted his fans with songs like «Do the Limbo Dance», «Crazy For You» and «This Time Around» and also presented new songs from his album «Romantics» in the midst of the beautiful scenery of the Carinthian Lake Wörthersee. As a very special treat, his daughters Taylor and Hayley performed with him on stage.

His music career started 20 years ago in Austria - for his comeback show he returned to Austria and presented one hour of entertainment at it's best. A romantic evening with romantic songs as well as David's «sing-alongs» like «Is everybody happy», «Looking for freedom» and many more, always touching the hearts of people and transcending generations.

David Hasselhoff received over 45 Platin- und Gold Record-Awards worldwide.

Donauinsel Special - Europe's Biggest Open Air Festival

With over 500.000 visitors per day, the Vienna Donauinsel Festival has become the largest open air festival in Europe. Since 1984 great lineups of international stars rock the Danube Island and entertain approximately three million party-goers each year. The most outstanding acts of the past few years including the top live acts 2014 areavailable now:

The report of a unique evening, during which pop rock and classical music blended into one. The public was stirred by ballads such as «Eleven», «Vivian» and «Flying High». Naturally the night would not have been complete without the world-wide hit «Live is Life» as the symphonic highlight, of which in the past 25 years over 100 different versions have been produced. Since the Opuspocus Circus has never been one for standing still, a brand new song was also presented in the extraordinary atmosphere - «You Can Count On Me», a positive, up-tempo blend of pop rock and classical music...

This project brings together the best operatic soloists from Moscow's stages in a combined opera and operetta musical. Having been awarded the title «Russian National Treasures», they have already celebrated amazing success many cities including London, New York and Tokyo. Seven ancient archetypal characters sway their guests through solo numbers and ensemble pieces across different genres such as Russian folklore, romances, classical arias and melodies from the musicals. The Moscow state dance ensemble, translate the musical works of art into dance and movement. The unique program and a permanent company of seven operatic tenors, who all appear on the same stage at the same time, guarantee the viewers the fullest possible display of the unlimited creative possibilities of the singers and their songs.

On June 29th 1985, an event of singular artistic importance took place. In the presence of Pope John Paul II, Karajan and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra performed Mozart's Coronation Mass in the Basilica of St. Peter's in Rome. With Kathleen Battle, Trudeliese Schmidt, Gösta Winbergh and Ferruccio Furlanetto, soloists of highest international reputation had been selected to participate. The choir of the Vienna Singverein completed the cast of great performers. Those who were there became witness to a meeting of a truly great Pope with one of the greatest conductors of all times, who - together with a world-class assembly of musicians - created an inspiring atmosphere on that memorable evening in Vatican City. An evening never to forget, even when only watching it on TV.

Karajan - Bruckner: Symphony No. 8 in C minor

The second orchestra of importance in Karajan's life was the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. An artistic friendship spanning decades developed, driving the orchestra to great achievements while at the same time inspiring the sensitive conductor. This congeniality of souls can especially be heard in the works of Anton Bruckner, a composer from Upper Austria. His Symphony No. 8 in C-minor, recorded live at the Musikvereinssaal in Vienna, is a document of absolute superlative.

Karajan - Dvorak: Symphonies No. 8/9

Herbert von Karajan's Dvorak-interpretations with the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, most notably symphonies No. 8 and 9, are legendary. Symphony No. 9 «From the New World» stands very much in the tradition of Beethoven, but is completely riddled with a slavic tune and a melancholy way that Karajan and the Viennese implied so inimitably. Dvorak's 8th and 9th symphonies captured for eternity - recorded at the Musikverein.

Durations: 40 / 45 min.

Karajan - Tchaikovsky: Symphonies No. 4/5/6

Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovksy - similar to Mozart or Beethoven - was almost always working along the fine line between what is now called classical music and light music. His compositions are even known to people who have never set foot in a concert hall or never went to see a ballet performance, because his catchy tunes are widely used in the world of advertising. Just think of «The Nutcracker» or «Swan Lake». His three most popular symphonies are numbered 4, 5 and 6 in his work-catalogue. Whenever Karajan interpreted them, the audience responded with outright rage. Among all the thrilling and exciting performances the Maestro has left behind, the three Tchaikovsky symphonies Karajan recorded with the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra at the Musikverein in 1984 absolutely stand out.

Durations: 44 / 51 / 49 min.

Karajan - French Program: Debussy & Ravel

Besides his passion for Beethoven, Brahms or Tchaikovsky, Karajan also harbored a special connection to French composers. Thanks to his French wife Eliette, his villa in southern France and last but not least his personal elegance, he developed an intensive relationship to impressionists Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel.

A concert taped at the Berlin Philharmonie from 1985 testifies to that affection through Debussy's compositions «La Mer» and «Prélude à l'aprèsmidi d'un faune» as well as Ravel's «Daphne and Chloe».

Durations: 17 / 25 / 110 min.

Karajan - Brahms: Symphonies No. 1/2

Johannes Brahms only composed four symphonies. During 1986/87, Karajan recorded both No.1 and No. 2 with the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra. As with works of Beethoven, Bruckner and Strauss, Karajan's interpretations of Brahms fall in the category of «eternal validity». Both concerts were obviously planned as part of a complete cycle of Brahm's works, only to be interrupted by Karajan's death, thus leaving it a torso. For Brahms-aficionados, the torso still poses a highlight of all times.

Durations: 48/44 min.

Karajan - Mussorgsky: Pictures at an Exhibition

Mussorgsky's «Pictures at an Exhibition» in the orchestration of Ravel is one of the most popular works in concert literature. His interpretations of an exhibition that really existed in his days are so well put that you can literally see witch «Baba Yaga» or the «Biddies» hatch out of their eggs in front of your imaginary eyes. And if you feel that the walls of the Berlin Philharmonie are starting to sway because of the intensity of sound when standing in front of the Big Gate of Kiev - then you know, that this concert with the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra is one of the highlights of Karajan's entire career. Even those, whose access is by video only, will testify to that phenomenon. If you want to know why Karajan is considered a «Magician of Sound»: Watch this! His sheer talent becomes the event here.

Karajan - Richard Strauss: A Hero's Life / Don Quixote

During 1985 and 1986, two Richard Strauss concerts with Herbert von Karajan and the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra were taped: «Don Quixote» and «A Hero's Life». The subjects couldn't stand in a harsher contrast within each other: The endearing hero who fights windmills on one hand, the bombastic protagonist, who shows any kind of soft manners only in side-matters, on the other. Hardly have Herbert von Karajan and the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra produced two other works with such a differentiated, opulent and beautiful sound.

Durations: 49 / 46 min.

Karajan - New Year's Day Concert 1987, Vienna

Herbert von Karajan conducted the world-famous New Year's Concert of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra only once in 1987. In doing this he ennobled an institution that until then had perpetually been in the hand of a single colleague. Clemens Krauss, Willi Boskovsky and Lorin Maazel had always been responsible for a complete series. Then Karajan came, conducted and succeeded! Since then the star conductors change annually - from Muti to Kleiber, from Mehta to Abbado. Today, one anxiously anticipates who will be the superstar of next year's New Year's Concert. The main opinion is that Karajan put the ideal balance of light-footed joy and musical brilliance in this Viennese Music. Contributions to this success were Kathleen Battle with the «Frühlingsstimmen Walzer», the State Opera Ballet and the famous white horses, the Lippizaner. The New Year's Concert 1987 - it is really a great moment of musical history!

Peace Concert - Roads to Friendship

In an unique effort Riccardo Muti together with world-known soloists, the singers of the La Scala Choir and many of Europe's leading musicians joined forces to form the «United European Philharmonic Orchestra». A spectacular and masterful performance in classical music.

The traditional advent concert 2010 brings together a quartet of international singing greats. Genia Kühmeier, Elisabeth Kulman, Juan Diego Flórez and Bo Skovhus sing classical and traditional Christmas songs. The Vienna Boys' Choir and Vienna Singakademie are also performing. They are accompanied by the Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra under the musical directorship of Karel Mark Chichon.

Once again in 2010 the Wolkenturm in Grafenegg was the setting for the Summer Gala Concert. Several superstars of the classical music world performed a range of beautiful and atmospheric melodies. Those taking part included the Tonkünstler Orchestra under the baton of chief conductor, Andrés Orozco-Estrada, and star international soloists. The Swedish mezzo soprano, Anne Sofie von Otter, the award-winning young trumpeter, Alison Balsom, and Rudolf Buchbinder ensured that the Summer Gala Concert offered a varied start to the Grafenegg season. On the program were works by Johann Strauss, Joseph Haydn, George Gershwin, Kurt Weill, Edvard Grieg and Georges Bizet. To conclude, the artists presented the audience a very special highlight, joining together on stage to perform an arrangement of George Gershwin's «They Can't Take That Away From Me»- a musical tour de force for mezzo soprano, piano and trumpet.

On this occasion the Vienna Symphony Orchestra whisked its public away to a special kind of «www»- namely the «Wiener Wasser Welten» or Vienna Water Worlds. Under the leadership of chief conductor, Fabio Luisi, this year the Vienna Symphony Orchestra put together a program themed around water for its traditional Easter concert. In addition to polkas and waltzes from the Strauss family, the program also includes Paul Dukas'«The Sorcerer's Apprentice». Handel's «Water Music» and Smetana's «Moldau» (Vltava) continue the theme, as does what is probably the most popular water-related work, «The Blue Danube» by Johann Strauss.

A «symphonic cruise» through sea, wind, swell and waves from the Hebrides to the North Sea. The orchestra travels with the «Flying Dutchman» (Overture Richard Wagner) in a «Dialogue Between Wind and Waves» (Claude Debussy) and «Without Stopping» (Eduard Strauss) in a «Barque on the Ocean» (Maurice Ravel) over «Swells and Waves» (Johann Strauss). It's a journey embellished along the way with lively waltzes and polkas, a hallmark of Viennese classical music.

In 2001, 12 renowned divas of song from all over the world gathered in the world-famous Greek amphitheater in Taormina, Italy, under the direction of André Heller. This «Festival of the Last Prima Donnas» celebrated the talents of American soprano Jessye Norman, the «Voice of America» Ami Koita, Dee Dee Bridgewater, regarded as the «new Ella Fitzgerald», Israeli pop singer Noa and her Palestinian counterpart Amal Murkus, as well as Esma Reszepova, known as the «Edith Piaf of the Gypsies», and Neapolitan singer Lina Sastri «the incarnation of Italy's songs».

Karajan - Beethoven - 9 Symphonies

Beethoven and Karajan - a lifelong love affair; decades of struggle. The result: new unexpected interpretations time and time again. The studio productions of Telemondial were recorded in the years 1982 - 1986 in the Berlin Philharmonie with the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra. They bring the possibly most popular symphonies into the concert halls of the world in perfect balance between obliging architecture and innovative magnitude that was such a great concern to the contemporary Beethoven. You can characterize these 9 Beethoven symphonies as the heart of Karajan's legacy.

Miscellaneous running times.

Karajan - Requiems by Verdi, Brahms & Mozart

Herbert von Karajan also often confronted himself with spiritual music. Especially the Mozart, Verdi and Brahms Requiem were always performed in the utmost quality, whereas before all else Verdi's Messa di Requiem demands excellent opera voices.

In the Musikvereinssaal in Vienna in 1984 with the Vienna Philharmonics, the soloist quartet Anna Tomowa-Sintow, José Carreras, José van Dam and Kurt Moll was available. The Mozart Requiem in 1986, again in the Vienna Musikvereinssaal with the Vienna Philharmonics, Anna Tomowa-Sintow could be heard again as the soprano, Vinson Cole as tenor, Paata Burchuladze as bass and Helga Müller Molinari as alto. Whereas the Brahms German Requiem, again in the Vienna Musikvereinssaal in 1985 with the Vienna Philharmonics, Kathleen Battle, soprano, Jose van Dam, baritone, along with the Vienna Singverein guaranteed an unforgettable event.

A unique event took place in Morocco in May 1999. Some 100 musicians answered a call from André Heller and went to Marrakesh to hold a music festival for and with each other, under the title «Voices of God». It took place in a magnificent interior courtyard of a clay palace from the 16th century. The splendidly costumed musicians took their places, only coming forward to present their art to a select group of Bedouins and their fellow musicians.

Voices of God refers to spiritual music in the broader sense. Heller: "Music is a rite, its sound invokes the invisible, but also casts a spell on people and the environment." Thus this confrontation of various cultures turned out to be more than just a festival of music but also one of beauty and the senses. An arena-like stage laid out with carpets was set up in front of the massive tower of the Badia Palace. Here the splendidly costumed musicians took their places, only coming forward to present their art to a select group of Bedouins and their fellow musicians. These included such famous artists as the "Sabri Brothers" from Pakistan, the Bulgarian "Angelité" choir, the "Black Lodge Singers" from central Africa, American Indians, Inuit women, a Fado singer from Portugal, the cantor of the big synagogue in Paris, the "Tuva Ensemble" from Siberia and even the Bad Goisern Alm Quartett.

Also available: Making of: 29 min.

Jubilee Concert of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra

A recording from the Grosser Musikvereinssaal, Vienna 1992 on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.

Karajan and the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra - a unique lifelong cooperation, slightly clouded only by minor disharmonies. Karajan was appointed head of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra at an early stage of his famed international career, when he succeded Wilhelm Furtwängler in 1954. The Vienna State Opera, the Salzburger Festspiele and the Vienna Philharmonic were later stops on his illustrious path through the world of music.

The long-term relationship between Karajan and the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra still remains a one-of-a-kind phenomenon. Not surprisingly, Karajan chose Beethoven's «Eroica» to be performed at the anniversary concert «100 Years Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra». Without a doubt, Karajans «Eroica» marks a highlight in the history of classical concerts - and certainly one of Karajan's own career.

Karajan - Osaka Concerts

Herbert von Karajan had an exceptionally close relationship to Japan. He had his first appearance as a guest conductor with the NHK Symphony Orchestra in 1954. A few months later - after Furtwängler's death - he came to Tokyo and Osaka in 1984 on his first world tour with his Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra. At this celebrated appearance in the Symphony Hall Osaka he performed Mozart's Divertimento No. 15, Richard Strauss's Don Juan and Respighi's Pini di Roma. If you want to experience how popular Karajan was in Japan, you have the best possibility to do so with this recording.

Karajan - Famous Overtures

The compositions of Ludwig von Beethoven as well as those of Richard Wagner or Richard Strauss stand in the center of Herbert von Karajan's oeuvre. He recorded the most popular Beethoven overtures in the season 1985/86 in the Berlin Philharmonie, i.e. Fidelio, Egmont and Leonore Nr. 3. This concert of superlatives is complemented by Brahms' Tragic Overtures. Karajan proves himself as a deserving successor of his great idol Wilhelm Furtwängler.

Karajan - Opening Concert Chamber Music Hall Berlin 1987

The Opening of the Berlin Chamber Music Hall in October 1987 would remain one of the last appearances of Karajan in Berlin. On this occasion, Karajan conducted Vivaldi's «Four Seasons». The part of the solo violin was played by one of the best violinists in the world, who also was the favourite musical partner of Karajan at the time: Anne-Sophie Mutter. A passionate young musician, she became - next to Karajan and the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra - the third star of the evening. Karajan directed the concert while playing the cembalo himself.

We are the World - World Choir Games 2008

About a dozen choirs will present music, lyrics and inclinations of the choral scene from all over the world - from Swedish a cappella to traditional or classical ensembles from Croatia or Italy, from Australian pop-oriented choirs to a children's choir from China. This is an exceptional musical journey not only for your ears but also for your eyes: watch singers in incredible elaborate traditional costumes and musicians playing on long-established priceless instruments as well as breathtaking dance performances by folk dance groups. Let you drag along into this record-breaking choir festival and experience first hand how its slogan «Singing together brings nations together» has become a unifying force for the entire world.

Christmas in Vienna 2005

Artistically speaking, "Christmas in Vienna" is a top-notch traditional Christmas concert intended as a purely classical platform for celebrating the holidays. In addition, this event provides a glimpse of some of Vienna's historic sites, including the Stephansdom cathedral or the Figaro House, while telling very touching Yule-tide tales involving prominent personalities. The participation of baritone Thomas Hampson, one of the finest singers in the contemporary music scene, guarantees the highest level of artistic quality. He is joined by sopranos Ildikó Raimondi and Federica von Stade, making up a cast to ensure a truly memorable event.

The concert of Mozart's Requiem in D minor in full-length by the outstanding performance of Nikolaus Harnoncourt and his Concentus Musicus Vienna marked the glamourous conclusion of the Mozart Year 2006. Written by one of the greatest composers of musical history, the genius of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is apparent all the time during this exceptional musical experience. Although being his last composition, it is one of his most powerful and recognized works; however he never was able to complete it because of his sudden death. Mozart's assistant and student, Franz Xaver Süßmayr, took on the task of completing the piece.

The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra - Famous Conductors in Historical Recordings

On the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra the ORF presents a selection of historical mono recordings in black and white. The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra is conducted by Claudio Abbado, Karl Böhm, Lorin Maazel, Zubin Mehta, Eugene Ormandy, Sir Georg Solti and George Szell.

There are very few vivid legends such as Herbert von Karajan! His name is a synonym for musicality, perfection and passion. Comparable perhaps only with Enrico Caruso or Maria Callas, but with the exception that the conductor (born on April 5th, 1908 in Salzburg and died on July 16th, 1989) could eternally preserve a great part of his oeuvre thanks to the television era.

His career is accompanied by very early recordings and even the very young Karajan is documented on film. His last life decade was dedicated to quality documentation on a very high level of his most important oeuvres for future generations. In 1982 he founded Telemondial, contracted the king of the record managers Uli Märkle of the Deutsche Grammophon and with the best studio technicians he once again started to produce sound recordings of the most important symphonies of Beethoven, Dvorak, Brahms, Tchaikovsky and Mozart. His orchestra were his two favorite ensembles: The Vienna and Berlin Philharmonics. Next to these studio productions of popular concert repertoires Karajan decided to integrate some of his favourite operas like "Don Giovanni", "Don Carlos", "Der Rosenkavalier" or "Falstaff". The most popular Karajan events such as the New Year's Eve Concerts in Berlin and the famous New Year's Concert with the Vienna Philharmonics of 1987 complete this "Karajan legacy".

Karajan - New Year's Eve Concerts Berlin 1983/84/85/88

In 1983 the concert's repertoire covered Rossini's William Tell Overture, Smetana's Vltava from Má Vlast, Sibelius's Valse triste, Josef Strauss's Delirium Waltz as well as Johann Strauss II's Overture to The Gipsy Baron. A year later Karajan totally dedicated his New Years Eve Concert to the oeuvre of Johann Sebastian Bach. The Concerto for Violin and Orchestra in E major with Anne-Sophie Mutter as well as the Magnificat with such outstanding singers as Judith Blegen, Francisco Araiza and Robert Holl made this concert to a reflective event in memory of the perhaps greatest of all German composers. On Dec 31st 1985, Karajan once again conducted this concert, which was designed to exactly stroll along the border of serious music on one hand and more lightly flavored tunes on the other. After Weber's overture to «Freischütz», a series of popular and catchy tunes were presented. Leoncavallo's Intermezzo from «Pagliacci», Puccini's interlude from «Manon Lescaut» preceded Rhapsody Nr. 5 by Franz Liszt. Ravel's «Bolero» marked the absolute highlight of the concert. The Silvester Concert 1985/86 offered a perfect introduction for newcomers into classical music. Three years later it was again Karajan's baton guiding the Berlin Philharmonic. This time, the repertoire consisted of two highly complex piano concerts. Besides Sergej Prokoffief's Symphony No. 1, the arguably most popular piano concert of all was performed: Piotr Ilitsch Tchaikovsky's Concert No.1 in B-minor. Jewgenij Kissin, then considered a «Wunderkind», displayed an inspired performance on piano. The Berlin Philharmonic Silvester Concert 1988 offered a musical experience of the extraordinary.

From the 1984, 1985 and 1986 concert seasons, one Beethoven-performance by the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra under their longtime director Karajan stands out above all others. Beethoven's Concert for Violin in D-Major, performed by Anne- Sophie Mutter, turned out to be downright unsurpassable. A truly timeless masterpiece, that perfectly balances the simplicity of chamber music through the soloist's highest virtuosity with the overall tone of Beethoven's arguably most popular composition. Throughout his life, Karajan always maintained a sense for perfection and aesthetics. Together with «his» Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra and the young Anne-Sophie Mutter, he left behind a recording that can only be called consummate and perfect.

Some of the most beautiful Christmas carols have been recorded by the ORF for a Christmas Eve broadcast. They are sung by Sona Ghazarian, the well-known popular singer of the Vienna State Opera. She is accompanied by the Vienna Boys Choir and the Vienna Chamber Orchestra under Prof. Froschauer.

In the 1980s, The «Totensonntags-Konzerte» (All Souls' Day Concerts) of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra marked the undisputed highlights of Berlin's concert life. Three times these magical moments of classical music were captured on video. In these three concerts, Karajan conducted works of two composers he had cherished for all his life: Richard Strauss and Anton Bruckner. All three of them - inspiring performances, brilliantly arranged and conducted as they are - have set a benchmark for all following generations of bandmasters.

This event provides not only a glimpse of the impressive historic Konzerthaus, but also some of Vienna's famous other sites, including the St. Stephen's Cathedral or the Figaro House, while telling very touching Yule-tide tales involving prominent personalities.

One year later, after the violin concerto, he recorded Beethoven's «Missa Solemnis», again with the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra. For this recording, he recruited an international cast of singers, of which José van Dam and Letta Cuberli stand out. Interestingly enough, he called on the choir of the Vienna Musikverein to perform with the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra.

Karajan - Gala Concert 750 Years Berlin 1987

On May 1st 1987, a memorable concert took place in Berlin. The official kick-off to the celebrations of Berlin's 750th anniversary was a concert performed by the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Herbert von Karajan. The concert aired live on TV, with the Berlin Philharmonic performing «Also sprach Zarathustra» by Richard Strauss as a dramatic symphony with opulent sounds and lyrical intermezzos as well as «Divertimento No.17 in D- major», Köchel catalogue No. 334, by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Concert for Europe 2007

The Concert for Europe, having happened for the fourth time in spring 2007, is Europe's greatest classical music open air. Combining world famous classical music played by the renowned Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra with the magnificent scenery of the Schönbrunn Palace gardens, the Concert for Europe annually enchants up to 140.000 visitors on site. - Conductors like Bobby McFerrin, Zubin Mehta, Placido Domingo and Valéry Gergiev, as well as the palace garden's unique imperial ambiance, contributed to the fact that the "Concert for Europe" in just four years has taken a well deserved place at the top of the world's classical open airs.

For decades, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra has given a live concert on New Year's Day, playing predominantly compositions by the splendid Strauss family. It has become a tradition in 60 countries all over the world to welcome the New Year with the music from the Musikverein in Vienna. The orchestra is world famous, partly because of its many international tours. Conducted by Clemens Krauss, Willi Boskovsky, Herbert von Karajan, Claudio Abbado and Carlos Kleiber, Riccardo Muti, Nikolaus Harnoncourt, Seiji Ozawa, Lorin Maazel, Mariss Jansons, Zubin Mehta and Georges Prêtre the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra was the first to play inimitable Viennese waltzes, polkas and marches in classical concerts, they have now become a yearly tradition. The concert takes place in the famous «Golden Hall» of the Musikverein. The Vienna State Opera Ballet dances to some of the pieces in the most beautiful Palais of Vienna. In the break of the concert, picturesque scenes from Austria are shown, accompanied by lovely stories about the Viennese music and traditions.

New Year's Day Concert 2002, conducted by Seiji Ozawa New Year's Day Concert 2006, conducted by Mariss Jansons New Year's Day Concert 2008, conducted by Georges Prêtre